Rapido 50, FLINT

Broker’s Comments

The Rapido 50 is a breath of fresh air in the performance multihull market. It has been cleverly designed by Morelli and Melvin, the gurus of multihull design. The yacht exudes a sharp look that hints at its impressive performance under sail.

Its full carbon construction keeps displacement low, a holy grail in performance sailing. The main hull is designed ingeniously, providing maximum accommodation while maintaining a narrow waterline.

Moving from the bow, the full-width forward heads offer standing height, a shower, and ample storage. The forward offset full-size double cabin enjoys abundant natural light, headroom, and storage beneath the berth and in cupboards at the side. The combination of painted surfaces and wood creates a boutique atmosphere.

Stepping up into the main saloon and galley elevates the experience, offering a 360-degree view and overhead hatches, making life underway easy and protected. The forward-facing navigation station snugly resides on the port side of the daggerboard casing.

The galley is well equipped, avoids the use of gas, and is ergonomically designed, with everything within easy reach. An exceptional feature is electronically frosting glass for privacy in marinas or at anchor.

Aft, in the well-protected cockpit, main sail controls lead back to the helm, ensuring a secure and clutter-free environment. Deep storage lockers provide easy access on either side.

Descending into the aft cabin reveals a very private space with a full-width double berth, an en suite, and a hatch to the transom. Surprisingly, there is a significant amount of storage, making it a comfortable space at sea.

On deck, the helm is under a well-protected hardtop, with access to the boom and all navigational systems. Push-button winches, mainsheet, and primary winches are within easy reach.

The unique selling point (USP) of this yacht, of course, is its ability to cruise at high speeds. It is easy to maintain high teens in boat speed on passage, and even more if you are in a hurry. What’s more, it is not hindered by its beam when in port, thanks to the folding mechanism on the main beams, enabling it to fit into a berth suitable for an average-sized 50’ monohull. The locking mechanism for the floats when extended is impressively solid.

At sea, you will notice how ‘planted’ it feels compared to a monohull or a catamaran. The low volume in the floats cuts through the sea, minimizing pitch, while the main hull provides significant righting moment.

With the addition of the daggerboard, it sails exceptionally well upwind under the J1, and switching to the Code 0 lights it up at 20 knots or more, with average speeds surpassing wind speed.

This is not a yacht for flying the main hull and setting your ears on fire. Instead, it is a very fast and comfortable cruising yacht, perfect for couples with guests or even for single-handed sailing.

Sailing Video

Sales Video

Owner’s Comments

I bought a Rapido 50 because I wanted a fast yacht that sails equally well in heavy and light wind. I also wanted to tie up in a traditional sailboat marina berth, practical at home and indispensable while sailing. Selling regretfully to do more racing after several fantastic years.